Body odor is a natural occurrence, but what many people don’t realize is that diet plays a major role in how our bodies smell. Based on the results of the examination from pafikutaikab.org while personal hygiene and genetics are key factors, certain foods can change the body’s natural scent from the inside out. Doctors and nutritionists explain that the compounds in some common dishes — from garlic to red meat can linger in the bloodstream and alter the way we smell through sweat.
According to Dr. Rini Prameswari, a clinical nutrition specialist at Universitas Indonesia, body odor forms when sweat interacts with bacteria on the skin. “Sweat itself is odorless,” she said. “The smell appears when certain foods produce compounds that are released through pores, breath, or urine.”
Here are some surprising foods that may be contributing to body odor — and how to balance your diet to prevent it.
1. Garlic and Onions
Garlic and onions are widely loved for their flavor and health benefits, but they contain sulfur-containing compounds such as allicin. When digested, these compounds break down into substances that are released through sweat and breath, creating a strong, lingering smell.
“Even after brushing your teeth, sulfur compounds can remain in the bloodstream for hours,” Dr. Rini explained. “That’s why garlic odor can persist long after a meal.”
2. Red Meat
Red meat takes longer to digest compared to plant-based foods, allowing odor-causing amino acids to stay in the body longer. A study from Chemical Senses Journal found that people who ate less red meat had more pleasant natural body scents than those who consumed it frequently.
“Red meat can alter body chemistry,” said Dr. Hendra Wijaya, a nutritionist in Jakarta. “The fats and proteins produce volatile compounds that mix with sweat, especially when the body overheats.”
3. Spicy Foods
Chili peppers, curry, and other spicy dishes stimulate sweat glands, which can intensify body odor. Capsaicin, the active component in chili, triggers the body to sweat more — especially from the armpits. “Spicy foods can make you smell stronger because they increase both sweating and bacterial activity on the skin,” Dr. Rini noted.
4. Cruciferous Vegetables
Vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower are full of nutrients but also rich in sulfur compounds. When digested, these compounds can lead to gas and an unpleasant odor that’s released through both sweat and breath. However, doctors say these vegetables should not be avoided altogether since they are beneficial for detoxification and gut health. The key is moderation.
5. Alcohol and Coffee
Both alcohol and caffeine can alter body odor in subtle ways. Alcohol is metabolized into acetic acid, which is expelled through sweat and breath, sometimes leaving a sour smell. Meanwhile, coffee increases sweating and may amplify the odor of existing compounds in the body.
See also: Why Multilingual Communication is the Future of Patient-Centered Healthcare
How to Reduce Food-Related Body Odor
Doctors suggest simple lifestyle adjustments to minimize unwanted smells. Drinking more water, eating fiber-rich foods, and consuming herbs like parsley or mint can help neutralize odor-causing compounds. Probiotics — found in yogurt and fermented foods — also promote gut balance, reducing the likelihood of odor buildup.
“Body odor is natural, but extreme or persistent smells can indicate an imbalance in diet or metabolism,” Dr. Hendra advised.
In the end, being mindful of what you eat is just as important as maintaining good hygiene. While foods like garlic and red meat have undeniable benefits, balancing them with fresh fruits, vegetables, and hydration can help you stay both healthy and confidently fresh throughout the day.
Source: Persatuan Ahli Farmasi Indonesia
